Brother Gregory gave me a copy of his favorite prayer when we toured his woodworking shop. His delightfully charming humble simple manner disarmed me completely. He showed me old photos of the abbey, including a full roster from 1989 when all monks abroad came together for a meeting at the abbey. The monks numbered well over fifty. Researching, I discovered the prayer he gave me is quite famous as a poem, written by Max Ehrman, a lawyer from Terre Haute, Indiana, a graduate of DePauw University in Indiana, the same college my roommate Carter graduated from.
Desiderata
Go placidly amid the noise and haste, and remember what peace there may be in silence. As far as possible without surrender be on good terms with all persons. Speak your truth quietly and clearly; and listen to others, even the dull and ignorant; they too have their story. Avoid loud and aggressive persons, they are vexations to the spirit. If you compare yourself with others, you may become vain and bitter; for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself. Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans. Keep interested in your career, however humble; it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time. Exercise caution in your business affairs; for the world is full of trickery. But let this not blind you to what virtue there is; many persons strive for high ideals; and everywhere life is full of heroism. Be yourself. Especially, do not feign affection. Neither be critical about love; for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment it is as perennial as the grass. Take kindly the counsel of the years, gracefully surrendering the things of youth. Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune. But do not distress yourself with imaginings. Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness. Beyond a wholesome discipline, be gentle with yourself. You are a child of the universe, no less than the trees and the stars; you have a right to be here. And whether or not it is clear to you, no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should. Therefore be at peace with God, whatever you conceive Him to be, and whatever your labors and aspirations, in the noisy confusion of life keep peace with your soul. With all its sham, drudgery and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world. Be careful. Strive to be happy.
Brother Gregory
Speaking of Indiana, two other items come to mind. The Exodus painting gifted to retiring Father Damien from St Meinrad was uncrated. I took a photo and now post. Also, coinciding with my discernment at Assumption Abbey, I received an email from the friary in Indiana today. God is good. The community just welcomed ten new postulants. The email supplied a video celebrating ceremonies welcoming the new recruits. I could not help but be swept away by faith, hope, and charity. I am posting the video also in honor of religious vocations. The community is strongly in my prayers, gratefulness emanating from the depths of my heart. Joy reigns supreme.
